E-Ko FAQs

If you are swimming with dolphins you will need to check-in no less than 45 minutes before your scheduled departure.

All other tours please check-in no less than 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.

New Zealand Fur Seal on rocks

Do your trips have minimum numbers?

All trips require a minimum equivalent number of 6 full fare adults to cover minimum operating costs.
Notification will be given 30 minutes before Tour departure if we are unable to depart and we will look for alternatives for you. So remember to call us before your scheduled tour to check Tour status. Picton is a small town and lots of tours locally are not confirmed until close to departure due to transient tourism locally. Do not worry it always works out 🙂

Your Options;

retain your booking and hope minimum numbers are met by the scheduled departure of your trip (if they are not you are entitled to a full refund or move the booking to another day or tour which is available)

cancel your trip and be fully refunded outside 24 hours.

change your booking date/time to the next available and confirmed departure for the tour you want.

We have FREE Wifi which is High speed and a great lounge with refreashments and an amazing view for you to enjoy while waiting.

Failure to check in may result in you not being able to go on your tour and not being entitled to a refund.

Where do you depart from?

All trips depart from the Town Wharf in Picton. This is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk to the east of the ferry terminal at the main town wharf. Our office is located on the Foreshore on London Quay and Wellington Street.

Kiwi on Motuara

Is it true that with E-Ko Tours you see more Wildlife than any other place in New Zealand?

Yes, it's true! We guarantee on our wildlife tours you will see more for your money than any other location in NZ.

We are very passionate and enthusiastic about the incredible amount of wildlife species we have to offer both on land and in the sea.

We are the only operator that has 1000 hectares of predator free island sanctuary to explore.

We also are the only place in the country with 5 Species of Dolphin.

On the tour we never know what we will find from whales to kiwi, every day is different.

If you want to get the best value wildlife tour then join our Motuara Island and Dolphin Tour, guaranteed satisfaction and to top it off we also give you Wine and Mussels on the way home

Wildlife Tour 4 hour

Can I visit a bird sanctuary island to see rare and endangered birds and dolphins on the same tour if I have limited time?

Yes, we have spent 20 years developing the only New Zealand Tour that can provide this.

This is the island we grow Rowi Kiwi on, usually 50+ per annum. It's also where New Zealand was founded in 1770 by Captain Cook, so you get to experience history, wildlife, wine and seafood in one magical iconic Marlborough Tour

If we miss the Dolphins on the way out to the island we usually bump into them on the way home while drinking wine. The more wine you drink the more Dolphins you see 🙂

Are dolphins and king shags guaranteed?

Wildlife is not always predictable – that’s what makes it wild!

We cannot guarantee that you will see dolphins or other wildlife on our tours.

Our success rate for dolphin sightings per trip is 95%.

Our success rate for dolphin swimming is 80%.

Those booking the birdwatchers expedition have an excellent chance of seeing the rare King Shags - we have spent 10 years every day and can give you a 99% success rate.

King Shag only found in Marlborough Sounds

Do you offer charters or special group rates?

Yes – we can arrange a trip to suit your needs, as there are many options for an enjoyable day in the sounds. Contact us to arrange a quote.

Are your Tours suitable for children?

Happy family

We are a family friendly company and children of all ages will truly enjoy our tours. We also have educational tours for schools and universities.

Our boat "Delphinus" contains kids colouring pages, toys, and books.

The walk-on Motuara Island is a gradual upward ascent in some parts, so most children (or parents carrying children) may not make it to the lookout at the very top.

Please also remember that you need to be responsible for your children. We require the smaller ones to wear a life jacket. The crew will fit these at departure time or bring your own. Its great to teach children respect for the ocean. 😊 However any child onboard is at the discretion of the Captain and subject to sea conditions on the day.

Do you feed the dolphins?

No - All the dolphins in the Queen Charlotte Sound are wild and free and we do not manipulate or interfere with their natural behaviours.

Will I get wet if I want to swim with the dolphins?

If you're lucky 😊

Perfect Tour swimmer

Where exactly are the dolphins?

Dolphin Watching

In the ocean, playing, relaxing making friends with other dolphins

What do I need to bring?

For all tours excluding dolphin swim and view tour, you will need to bring, warm clothes (just in case), a water bottle, sunscreen and a camera (optional but highly recommended!)

For dolphin swimming, you will also need to bring your swimwear and towel. We supply you with wetsuit, mask and snorkel.

What happens if the weather gets really bad while we are on the boat?

The Marlborough Sounds are extremely sheltered from the wind and we rarely experience any of the sea swells that make passengers sick in other areas of New Zealand. That is why we offer a 'no seasickness guarantee'

However, if sea and wind conditions are deemed too severe, all dolphin swimming tours will be cancelled for matters of passenger safety.

Your safety is paramount to us and we will not continue a tour if the conditions are unsafe for you aboard the vessel. The Captains decision on this final. See Cancellation for Terms and Conditions.

Where is parking (cars and camper-vans)?

There is a large car park situated next to the Waterfront Marina (where our Office is located). The turnoff to the car-park is along Wellington Street and it is $5.00 for the entire day (the correct money is needed).

Is there space for me to put my luggage?

Sometimes people are checking-in or out of accommodation after or prior to our Tours.

We do have quite a large boat with spacious forward cabins, therefore you can take most of it on-board with you!

But if you have large travel bags/suitcases you can leave them in the E-Ko Office with our office staff for the duration of the tour.

Whale tail

Where is my confirmation email?

Double check your junk mail and spam folders.

Sometimes confirmation emails end up there.

If you still can't find it, contact us and we'll send you another copy.

Interislander and Jumping dolphin

Wildlife

How does E-Ko support local wildlife and conservation efforts?

You have made a good choice choosing an E-Ko experience as part of the money you have paid goes back to dolphin research to support the Marine Mammals regulations locally, Department of Conservation upkeep, local community projects and initiatives.

We are also an Qualmark Gold certified operator - the highest standard possible under Tourism New Zealand

How can I get involved with Wildlife and Marine Mammal conservation?

By joining an E-Ko tour, you're already being involved in conservation! If you would like to get more actively involved, send us an email or contact the Guardians of the Sounds, World Cetacean Alliance, or Project Jonah.

This is the island we grow Rowi Kiwi on, usually 50+ per annum. It's also where New Zealand was founded in 1770 by Captain Cook, so you get to experience history, wildlife, wine and seafood in one magical iconic Marlborough Tour

Kiwi on Motuara

Are dolphins and king shags guaranteed?

Wildlife is not always predictable – that’s what makes it wild!

King Shag on 630 in the world

We cannot guarantee that you will see dolphins or other wildlife on our tours.

Our success rate for dolphin sightings per trip is 95%.

Our success rate for dolphin swimming is 80%.

Those booking the birdwatchers expedition have an excellent chance of seeing the rare King Shags - we have spent 10 years every day and can give you a 99% success rate.

King Shag only found in Marlborough Sounds

What Species can you see on a Wildlife Tour ?

What you can See:

Sea Birds

Little Blue Penguins

Fluttering Shearwaters

White Fronted Tern

Spotted Shag, Pied Shag, Little Black Shag

Australasian Gannets

King Shags

Caspian Tern

Yellow Fronted Kakariki

South Island Saddleback

Grey Reef heron

Variable Oystercatcher

Southern Oystercatcher

Marine Mammals

New Zealand Fur Seals

Orca

Bottlenose Dolphin

Hectors Dolphin

Dusky Dolphin

Common Dolphin

Land Birds

Fantail

Grey Warbler

Tui

Bellbird

New Zealand Wood Pigeon

New Zealand Robin

Rowi Kiwi

Yellow Fronted Kakariki

South Island Saddleback

New Zealand Falcon

What to Bring for a Wildlife Tours ?

Camera

Footwear you can walk in

Sunscreen

Sunglasses

Light jacket if overcast

Safety

Do E-Ko Tours follow safe operating rules?

In New Zealand, the activity of Dolphin Swimming falls under maritime New Zealand legislation and the Department of Conservation.

Our vessels are maintained to high standards with a company Maritime Transport Operators Certificate in place and an active Safety system.

We spend extensive time training staff on Safety and have an active Safety culture in place in the company.

Maritime New Zealand has developed a Dolphin Swimming code which E-Ko Tours follows and often exceeds as safety and comfort of our customers is a priority at E-ko.

For Swim Tours, you must be able to climb onboard unadded up a ladder.

For Sea Tours, you must be able to climb the steps in front of the shop

Dolphin Watching

Do you complete risk assessments for school groups?

As our company is also active with Education in the Sounds, we complete full Risk assessments for school groups and supply life jackets for all school children on board to wear if required.

Penguin Box

I've never been on a boat! What should I do when I get on-board?

Upon departure on each trip a full informative briefing is given in our shop, then a full maritime safety briefing upon departure and a further swim brief for swimmers participating a dolphin swim.

Tui in flaxbush

What is your staff to customer ratio?

This is an E-KO key difference we believe that small groups give the BEST Tourist experience, so we invest so you have only the BEST.

We are very proud of having a pro-active approach to Safety and training our staff to a high level ensure we provide the best customers service levels possible. This is why we have invested quality qualified staff and the highest staff to guest ratio locally; 1 staff to 15 customers so you can have fun and feel safe.

Cancellation

What happens if the weather is bad?

The sheltered waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound rarely warrant the cancellation of any trip.

Motuara island

When you check in with us we will inform you if the forecast is unfavourable and warrants a trip cancellation.

Individuals and small groupsYou may cancel your trip and be entitled to a full refund by providing no less than 24 hours’ notice prior to your scheduled tour departure.
Any customer who fails to comply with this cancellation policy will not be entitled to a refund.

Bottlenose and calf

Large Groups and Private ChartersYou may cancel your trip no later than 28 days prior to your scheduled departure and receive a full refund of your deposit.
If you cancel your trip between 14 and 28 days of your scheduled tour departure you will be entitled to receive a refund totalling 50% of the amount already paid.
Any customer/s who fails to comply with this cancellation policy will not be entitled to a refund.

Any refund you believe you are entitled to must be requested from us in writing by emailing info@e-ko.nz.
Provided your request complies with the requirements outlined in these terms and conditions your refund will be processed and credited to you within 7 days of us receiving your written request.

Do E-Ko Tours have a refund policy if I don't swim with dolphins?

#Discounted tickets do not receive any refunds( E-Ko Special Deals )

#Tickets purchased from an Online Provider require refunds to go through them at a % of the cost. Usually, 15% of price yet can vary as to their own terms and conditions. Check with them

#The Boat Captain determines the Refunds, his decisions are final

Happy Swimmers

Refund Policy Dolphin Swim – No Swim

#The Boat Captain determines the Refunds, his decisions are final

If you have paid for a dolphin swim and we are unable to deliver the product due to our permit conditions or any reason determined by the boat Captain then you will be entitled to a partial refund. Note that discounted tickets do not receive a refund.

Adult: total refund $50

Child: total refund $40

Refund Policy Dolphin Swim – No Swim or View

#The Boat Captain determines the Refunds, his decisions are final

If you have paid for a dolphin swim and we are unable to deliver the product due to us not spotting any dolphins you will be entitled to a partial refund.

Adult: total refund $70

Child: total refund $50

Swimming with Dolphins in calm waters

Refund Policy Dolphin View – No View

#The Boat Captain determines the Refunds, his decisions are final

If you have paid for a dolphin view tour and we are unable to deliver the product due to us not spotting any dolphins you will be entitled to a partial refund. This refund is calculated by taking the difference in price between a dolphin view tour and a basic cruise.

Adult: total refund $20

Child: total refund $15

Infant: N/A

Dolphins

Does New Zealand have any laws to protect marine mammals?

Here at E-Ko Tours, we are proud to follow the New Zealand Marine Mammal Protection Act 1978 and the Marine Mammal Protection Regulations 1992. These ensure the marine mammals of New Zealand are protected and that their conservation is a top priority. Our interactions with the marine mammals of the Marlborough Sounds adhere to all regulations and our conservation focused tours, educate and raise awareness.

World Cetacean Alliance

Our Director is also Oceania Representative for the World Cetacean Alliance and we are a certified Partner for this Global organisation focused on the health and sustainable future of Marine Mammals.

Medical Fitness for Swimming with Dolphins?

Swimming with dolphins does not require a lot of effort as you float and sing, yet with cold water, equipment and excitement in this adventure activity legally require you must be in good mental and physical health.

You are required to tell us if there is any reason you cannot swim. This can be a physical or phycological reason. ie Do not arrive to swim hungover.

We check each swimmer at the checkout and if the guide decides its best you sit this one out for any reason then you will be downgraded to Dolphin Watcher and refunded that portion.

The Guides decision is final so come prepared with a smile and in good health

Floats are on-board to assist if required as well as the 6mm full wetsuit you will be provided.

Smiling Bottlenose

Do I need to swim 50 meters?

The Short answer is 'No'. You will be entering a confined water environment and our location is the calmest in New Zealand.

This makes it perfect for nervous swimmers. We do not supply fins and do not encourage you to splash as it scares the Dolphins.

You may have to use your arms to dog paddle a little. It is, however, preferable that you have used a mask and snorkel before to maximise your ability to sing in the snorkel and attract more dolphins.

For Swim Tours, you must be able to climb onboard unadded up a ladder.

For Sea Tours, you must be able to climb the steps in front of the shop

Orca together

If you are nervous or unsure you book a dolphin viewing tour - and from our ship, you will still get a very close view of dolphins, and experience the wow factor these creatures generate.

How will I get in and out of the water?

For your safety and the safety of the Dolphins, we have fitted easy access ladders that make entry and exit from the water a pleasure with wide steps and handrails. We have a test ladder in the shop which can be used to check you are able to pull yourself onboard unadded.

These units were hand designed to reduce exertion required and also they ensure you enter the water feet first slowly. This is very important so your body reacts minimally to the water temperature.

For Swim Tours, you must be able to climb onboard unadded up a ladder.

For Sea Tours, you must be able to climb the steps in front of the shop

Perfect Tour swimmer

What if I've never worn a wetsuit or mask and snorkel?

To ensure you are comfortable with your swimming equipment we also give a full personal snorkel brief for all the guests to make sure you are comfortable before heading out to see.

Swimming with Bottlenose dolphins

Do you have to be a good swimmer to swim with the dolphins?

You do not have to be a strong swimmer to participate in the dolphin swim as the wetsuits we provide you with keep you very buoyant and floated.

We do require you to be able to perform simple breast-stoke though so that you can make your way to and from the ladders attached to the boat.

If you have a phobia/fear of open/deep ocean water though, we do not recommend a swim tour, just enjoy Dolphin Watching

Bottlenose dolphin -Jumpin

Is it true you make people sing to attract the Dolphins

Yes, it's 100% true!

We have special, fun-loving dolphins who look forward to every day having humans try and talk to them.

So you are paying to be dolphin entertainment You have to sing through your snorkel, and your reward is to have a dolphin look you in the eye, he may be laughing at your funny noises.

Its a really successful and fun method to get the best dolphin/human interactions.

When you start understanding what they are whistling or clicking back at you then you have learnt how to speak dolphin, a very rare skill among humans

Dolphin Smile after they hear hums sing, so come and bring joy to a Dolphin.

Close up dolphin swimming with dusky dolphins, Swimmer singing to dolphins

Do the dolphins come really close?

It is completely dependent on the dolphins and their mood. They are wild animals and we cannot control their behaviour.

Sometimes they can come very close (cm’s away) if they are seeking an interaction and other times they may just swim past in the distance for a quick look.

It is illegal in New Zealand to touch dolphins if they touch you it's their choice and a privilege. If we catch you trying to touch the dolphins, we pull you out and send you Dolphin prison.

Single Bottlenose looking up

Is the Dolphin Watching in the Sounds good?

The water is calm so that means it is the BEST place in New Zealand for Dolphin Watching as it so clear.

The photographs you can get with just a phone camera are amazing also as you get some close because we have spent 10 years building up a trust with the local mammals.

Hectors looking up from water at Watchers

We do not run multiple tours on the dolphins and we respect their space so they reward us with fantastic close encounters when they approach the boats.

Leaping Dolphin

They know the sound of our boats and often leap with joy and race towards us to get here daily human fix. 😊

The Dolphins come to the boat to look up at you. Its amazing and they enjoy looking at all the funny humans. This gives you fantastic photography and Watching opportunities on a stable platform in calm waters , no better place for Dolphin Watching in New Zealand.

WATCHING DOLPHINS

Do you feed the dolphins?

No - All the dolphins in the Queen Charlotte Sound are wild and free and we do not manipulate or interfere with their natural behaviours.

Will I get wet?

If you're lucky

Young bottlenose dolphin

Where exactly are the dolphins?

In the ocean, playing, relaxing making friends with other dolphins

Dolphin Smile

What happens if the weather gets really bad while we are on the boat?

Like all swim with dolphin operators in New Zealand, this is an open water experience - not an aquarium setup.

The Marlborough Sounds are extremely sheltered from the wind and we rarely experience any of the sea swells that make swimmers sick in other areas of New Zealand. That is why we offer a 'no seasickness guarantee'

No Seasickness Guarantee

However, if sea and wind conditions are deemed too severe, all dolphin swimming tours will be cancelled for matters of passenger safety. The Captains decisions on this is final.

Your safety is paramount to us and we will not put swimmers in the water if the conditions are unsafe for you to disembark or climb back aboard the vessel.

If dolphins are viewed, but the weather is not good enough to put swimmers in the water then your fare will be reduced. See cancellation for terms and conditions.

Do you supply/use fins?

No, we don’t. This is because we do not want people chasing after the dolphins or splashing too frequently, as splashing can be a sign of aggression in dolphin talk.

Hectors Dolphins times three swimming

What happens if the dolphins don't come over and interact with me?

Bottlenose and calf

Viewing dolphins in their underwater world is truly a magical experience and one not soon (if ever!) to be forgotten.

It should be noted that open water dolphin swimming operations are not like that of an aquarium type atmosphere.

Dolphins are generally very interested in swimmers, however, these are wild animals that are in total control of the situation and we are simply guests in their world.

If the dolphins are not in the mood to interact with people, they may simply move on and swimmers should be aware there is the chance that they will not interact with them in the water.

If that is the case, we will bring the swimmers back on-board for some awesome viewing from the boat.

Please understand that it is the dolphins choice whether to interact with the swimmers and refunds cannot be given if the dolphins are "not interested" for whatever reason.

Floating next to a Bottlenose

Do you supply flotation devices?

We can (a life-ring), but we usually don’t have to as the wetsuits we provide will keep you extremely buoyant. It is physically impossible to sink or dive under with the thick wetsuits provided.

Common dolphins

How cold is the water?

In the Winter/Spring (May to November) it can reach up to 13 degrees (Celsius) and during the summer (December to April) it is usually around 16-18 degrees (Celsius).

We provide thick wetsuits though, wetsuit booties and gloves, and we do have a hot water source on the boat to warm you up if needed!

Do you supply underwater cameras for hire? Or do you take photos on-board?

We do not supply cameras and we do not have a photographer on-board. Customers are more than welcome to bring their own under-water devices though! We do have a resident photographer whom is amzing and he can take personal photos for you.

How old do you have to be to swim with the dolphins?

Due to Marine Maritime Legislation and SMART regulations, we can only put children in the water who are 8+ years.

Happy family swimmers

We recommend not bringing children to swim until they are 10-12.

The children and you will have a much better experience when they are older.

Parents, do not push the children into this magical experience, for them to cherish it they must be deep water confident or it will have a negative effect, be SMART and wait

Do you provide wetsuits?

Yes, all our swimmers are required to wear a wetsuit, mask and snorkel. Legally the must be over 5mm.

Perfect Tour swimmer

Can I wear my wetsuit?

No. Our policy is to have 5-6mm wetsuits, which have been approved legally as buoyancy aids as well.

Since we cannot guarantee an individuals wetsuit thickness, we require all swimmers to use ours unless pre approved by management and checked onsite at check-in time.

Swimming with Bottelnose dolphins

Is the trip suitable for children?

We are a family friendly company and children of all ages will truly enjoy our tours.

Our boat "Delphinus" contains kids colouring pages, toys, and books.

Please also remember that you need to be responsible for your children.

For our dolphin swimming/viewing tours, children between the age of 8-12 years may swim with the Dolphins if they are competent swimmers, comfortable in the water and accompanied by a supervising adult. 1 Child = 1 Adult in the water up to 12 years old.

Happy Swimmers

The older they are the better the experience will be for them, be smart and wait till they are close to 12 or older so you can all enjoy the experience. Its special do not rush 😊

However any child swimming up to 15 is at the discretion of the Captain and subject to sea conditions on the day.

Do you feed the dolphins?

No - All the dolphins in the Queen Charlotte Sound are wild and free and we do not manipulate or interfere with their natural behaviours.

Will I get wet?

If you're lucky 😊

Dusky mother and calf

Where exactly are the dolphins?

In the ocean, playing, relaxing making friends with other dolphins

Dolphin Watching

What do I need to bring?

For a dolphin swim and view tour, you will need to bring, warm clothes (just in case), a water bottle, sunscreen and a camera (optional but highly recommended!)

For dolphin swimming, you will also need to bring your swimwear and towel. We supply you with wetsuit, mask and snorkel.

Dolphin swimmers smiling

Birding

We are the Local Birding Experts!

We have 1000 Hectares of Predator FREE Bird Sanctuary Islands and can get you great photo opportunities in comfort on our sheltered waters.

Rowi Kiwi release on Motuara Sanctuary Island

We transport Rowi Kiwi for Project Nest Egg so we can also arange for Kiwi Release by request.

Or just enjoy seeing these young birds in the middle of the day as the Radio transmitters are fitted to their legs ont eh journey out to Motuara island . We grow about 50+ Kiwi per year on Motuara. Another succes story for New Zealand Birding that E-Ko has had a key role by providing FREE transport for 10 years.

We have Birding options for individuals and for Groups:

Motuara Island and Dolphin Tour will give you the King Shag and South island Saddleback as an Individual or Group Charter. 4 hours. Departs 1330. Tell us you’re a Birder and we make sure you get the shots you want. 🙂

South Island Saddle back washing on motuara island

Blumine Island Birders expedition. This is focused on birders as a group. We leave at 0800 and return at 1200 to target King Shags and Orange Fronted Kakariki. Dedicated Guide/ Captain whom knows how to get the best encounters.

Orang Fronted Kakriki

Double Island Option for Moutuara Island will take an overnight stay on Blumine Island and the following day return to Picton. King Shag , Orange Fronted Kakariki , Mohua , Rowi Kiwi. 24 Hours This is good for individuals whom wan to see the Orange Fronted as it is the only viable place in New Zealand to see this now.

Little Blue Penguin

New Zealand Falcon

falcon landing

Grey Reef Heron

Grey Reef heron

T + C

E-K Tours Ltd

Terms and Conditions – All Tours

Individuals and Small Groups

(under 10 individuals or as specified by E-Ko)

HEALTH/SAFETY

We may refuse to carry you if we, acting reasonably, are not completely satisfied that it is practicable and safe for you to participate in the tour. Before you make any booking you must tell us if you (including all participants in your booking) suffer from any illness, disease or other mobility or medical condition which may make it impracticable or unsafe for you or other passengers to participate in the tour, or if you think you could be affected by adverse sea and weather conditions.

All tours carry a degree of risk and by participating in the tour provided by us you are expressly assuming those risks personally and are, to the maximum extent permitted by law, releasing us and our officers and employees from any liability, claims, losses, damages or expenses caused by any event, including, but not limited to: personal injury or death, property loss or damage, acts which may be construed as negligent or accidental, any other loss, damage, suffering, emotional or nervous disorder.

To ensure maximum safety and enjoyment of the tour by yourself and other passengers you must follow all reasonable instructions given by our staff before, during and after the tour and you agree that you will ensure that any children in your care do the same. You are responsible for the safety and protection of your own personal possessions at all times.

Even if you have a booking, we may refuse to carry you if we reasonably believe that carrying you may put the safety of the boat or the safety or health of any person in the boat in danger or at risk, or if you have not obeyed the instructions of our staff or a member of the crew of the boat relating to safety or security, or if you require special assistance and you have not previously made arrangements for such assistance, or if you are drunk or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or we reasonably believe you are in unlawful possession of drugs.

CHECK-IN DEADLINE

Check-in deadlines apply and may be strictly enforced. To help us get your tour away on time, ensure you are at the departure point by the time specified. You will not be able to check-in after the check-in deadline. Arrival after the check-in deadline may result in you losing your tour and the entire fare paid. The boat will not be held for you if you arrive late at the departure point. We are not liable to you for any direct or indirect loss or damage you may suffer as a result of your late arrival at either check-in or the departure point.

Booker’s Responsibility

In the event, you are booking for yourself AND/OR others (e.g. your family, tour group etc.) it is your responsibility to ensure all members of your party are familiar with these terms and conditions.

Bookings

Bookings can be made via phone, email, our website or authorized booking agency. Full payment will be taken on booking and all bookings are conditional on your compliance with our terms and conditions. Failure to comply will result in you and anyone you have booked for being excluded from your tour without the entitlement to a refund.

Discounted Fares

Discounted Fares do not receive refunds from E-Ko. If you booked your tour through an Online Travel Agent review their policy.

Refunds for No Dolphin swim with Online Travel Agents

Tickets purchased from an Online Provider require refunds to go through them at a % of the cost of the Tour. Usually, 15% of price yet can vary as to their own terms and conditions. Check with them.

E-Ko Refund Policy for Full Price Tickets

Dolphin Swim – No Swim

Adult: $50

Child: $40

Dolphin Swim – No Swim or View

Adult: $70

Child: $50

Dolphin View – No View

Adult: $20

Child: $15

The Boat Captain Determines Refunds

The Captain will determine if a refund is required and his decision is final

Cancellation Policy

You may cancel your trip and be entitled to a full refund by providing no less than 24 hours’ notice prior to your scheduled tour departure. Any customer who fails to comply with this cancellation policy will not be entitled to a refund.

Minimum Numbers

All trips require a minimum equivalent number of 6 full fare adults to cover minimum operating costs.

Weather

Trips may be cancelled due to poor weather conditions. If a trip is cancelled before the scheduled departure time you will receive a full refund.

Check-In

Call E-Ko tours 24 hours’ prior departure to confirm your booking.

On the day of your tour you must report to our office located at The Waterfront, 1 Wellington Street, Picton, NZ at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour departure.

What to Bring

For all tours excluding The E-Ko Dolphin Swim and View Tour, you will need to bring, warm clothes (just in case), a water bottle, sunscreen and a camera (optional but highly recommended!). if your dolphin swimming don’t forget a towel and swimwear!

The E-Ko Dolphin Swim and View Tour

Additional Term and Conditions

Trip Duration

The E-Ko Dolphin Swim and Viewing Tour will last between 2-4 hours depending on where the Dolphins are.

Dolphin Behaviour

It is important to understand that the dolphins of the Marlborough Sounds are wild animals and as such, we cannot control their behaviour. Most of the time dolphins are incredibly curious and playful but, just like humans, sometimes they are not in the mood to play and interact with you. If when swimming with dolphins they swim away from you, please, do not take it personally or try to chase after them.

Success Rate

Our success rate is calculated using actual figures gathered over the duration of the previous season. For viewing dolphins, our success rate is currently 95%. For swimming with dolphins, it is 80%.

Equipment Rental

If you lose our equipment, then you are responsible to pay for it.

Replacement costs are listed below:

Wetsuits: $150 Mask: $35 Snorkel: $20 Booties: $50 Hoods: $45

Age Requirements

12 years for swimming. NO EXCEPTIONS.

The older the children the better the experience.

Viewing children under 12 must be accompanied by an 18+-year-old at all times.

Minimum Mobility and Wheelchairs

Our boats have steps that you need to be able to climb unaided. If you are unable to do this, you will not be able to participate in an E-Ko Tour.

If you are mobility impaired but have arranged to be accompanied by an aide, then you are able to enjoy an E-Ko Tour.

We are unable, without prior arrangement, to take any passenger on board who is in a wheelchair due to our insurance policy.

Please email or call us should any of the above effect you.

Minimum Swimming Experience

Even though we operate in the calm sheltered waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound, it is preferable that you have some degree of swimming experience or are comfortable in the water. We have extremely warm buoyant full-length wetsuits and extra floatation devices to ensure your comfort and safety.

Medical Conditions

You must be fit and healthy, mentally and physically. Dolphin swimming is considered a strenuous activity and any medical condition which impairs your physical or mental ability must be brought to our attention. Swimming involves contact with cold water which can affect conditions that are triggered by heightened stress. It is your personal responsibility, to be honest when you will fill in our Pre-Swim questionnaire at check-in time. This reduces your risk of harm occurring.

You are obligated to notify us than of any medical condition affecting your general health or mental ability before the activity. Email us beforehand to discuss if unsure of medical conditions not considered eligible.

Those considered not medically able to be safely involved in a strenuous activity will be deemed ineligible for this activity. This is a legal requirement under New Zealand Maritime law.

Swimming with dolphins is an incredible experience and in New Zealand, our company is the safest operation with our sheltered calm waters, specialized swim ladders and methods. Our intention is for you to have the best possible interaction with the dolphins so come prepared.

You will then have one the most memorable experiences of your life, the Dolphins are looking forward to meeting you.

Sustainability is in our DNA

We pride ourselves on being a truly sustainable operator in the Marlborough Sounds. E-Ko Tours was founded on our passion for the environment and conservation. Learn more here.